What it is
You are out with the baby, she is hungry, and your stomach drops. You are searching 'nursing in public,' 'cover,' or 'California breastfeeding law.' California Civil Code section 43.3 says a mother may breastfeed her child in any public or private location where she is otherwise allowed to be, except someone else's private home. No cover is required. Nobody can lawfully send you to a bathroom or ask you to leave.
What's typical
The first few times feel exposed. By the tenth, most mothers barely think about it. Most strangers never notice. Comments are rare and usually come from staff who do not know the law.
What's known
The CDC lists social discomfort as a common reason for early weaning. In California, being refused service for nursing can count as sex discrimination; the Civil Rights Department takes those complaints.
What helps
- Practice at home in front of a mirror. Two shirts, one up and one down, show almost nothing.
- Go first to a friendly place: a library, a park bench, a café with other parents.
- Have a line ready for the rare comment: 'California law says I can feed my baby here.' Then go back to the baby.
When to call someone
- Now911 if someone threatens you or your baby.
- Todaya business or employee told you to stop or leave. Write down the date, place, and name, and file with the California Civil Rights Department.
- At your next visitfear of nursing in public is keeping you home. Say so; it is common and it can be helped.
Who helps
Tools: Birthworker Directory
Related
- Leaving the house for the first timeSupport, Home, and Village
- Lactation accommodation at work: your rights in CaliforniaCalifornia: Leave, Money, and Paperwork
- Breastfeeding positionsFeeding Your Baby
- Postpartum anxietyPostpartum: Mind
What mothers here say
No one has posted under this topic yet. The first experience here will help the next mother who searches for it at 2 a.m.
Experiences and questions are their authors' own, not reviewed advice. The topic's steward lists the ones that help most in a credited digest once there is one. Unusual experiences stay, with a note.
Sources
- California Legislative Information — Civil Code section 43.3
- California Civil Rights Department — FAQ on breastfeeding and discrimination
- National Conference of State Legislatures — Breastfeeding state laws
Sources are named, not yet linked. The steward verifies each one and adds the link.
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